BMW i3 Testing in the Heat- Spy Photos

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BMW is still readying its i3 concept for public sale, despite rumors that the project would be discontinued, and our spy photographers grabbed some photos of the small electric car testing in the heat of southern Europe.

The i3 will feature a carbon-fiber reinforced plastic chassis to make it incredibly light, and along with the BMW i8 will be the first high volume production car to utilize such technology.

First debuting as an all-electric, rumors have said that it may also receive a small gasoline engine sourced from a motorcycle to act as a range extender. BMW says we can expect 170 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque out of the powertrain, and thanks to a weight of roughly 2,755 lbs, the car is expected to accelerate to 60 mph in around 8 seconds. To keep with the sustainability theme, the interior features eucalyptus wood sourced from managed European forests to make up the dash, while a natural tanning agent extracted from the leaves of olive trees is used to tan the leather.

A dedicated ‘i’ brand dealership has been opened by the company in London, with sales of the i3 expected to start by late 2013.

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